By the time you read this, Valentine’s Day will be over. I didn’t want to spoil it for those who love it. But I have a few problems with this holiday. As a parent of 6, it was never fun to organize a class load of Valentine cards and candy for approximately 150 classmates, give or take. The night before the party was always a frenzy.
The hope that I have is that you know you are loved regardless of your relationship status. I hope you know your value even if you didn’t have a date. I hope you see yourself as beautiful even if no one has told you that for a while. You don’t have to be in a relationship to be fabulous.
If you are in a relationship, I pray that it is healthy. I pray that you don’t have to pretend everything is OK. I pray that you and your partner treat each other with respect and reverence, and that your time together is always a blessing. I pray that you are always deepening your love for one another, and that you see your love as a sign of God’s love. I pray that you have people who support you as a couple when things inevitably get tough.
If you are in a situation that might not be what society calls traditional, I pray that you stay strong and find the support you need. And if you are not interested in romantic relationship at all, I pray you have good friends who can tell you that you are awesome. Not everyone fits into societal norms and expectations, and that is a good thing. Be yourself!
Valentine’s Day has a narrative that just doesn’t fit everyone. That can make the day hard for some people. Know that you are always a delight in the eyes of God, always beloved, always created to be just as you are. Don’t let the ways of the world define you. God thinks you are marvelous!